The Dead

By the end of the story, Gabriel feels as though he hardly knows his wife. In what ways is Gretta’s secret foreshadowed in the narrative?

Freddy has alcoholism. In what ways are his bursts of laughter tinged with a note of tragedy?

How does the question of Irish nationalism affect Gabriel’s mood? Why does it affect him?

How does the story use Gabriel’s perspective to tell the story?

Light and shadows play an important role in hinting at the limits of Gabriel’s understanding. Explore the ways in which light and shadows symbolize his relationship with his wife.

How does music bring people together? In what ways does it drive them apart?

Gretta is married to Gabriel, but he begins to realize that he does not know his wife’s true character. To what extent does she know his true character? What does he keep hidden from her?

Michael Furey is revealed as playing a pivotal role in Gretta’s life. How has his death dictated the course of her life?